Changing Fuel Filters: 57 Corvette Guide

how to change filter in 57 corvette fuel filter

Changing the fuel filter in a 1957 Corvette is a complex process and not a job for a novice mechanic. The Corvette's fuel tank system has two nine-gallon saddlebag-type tanks, and the fuel filter is contained in the fuel sender assembly inside the left fuel tank. The fuel pump must be replaced in order to replace the fuel filter. This involves disconnecting and removing the fuel tanks, which requires specific tools and a high level of mechanical skill. It is important to note that there are safety risks associated with fuel filters and fuel lines, and certain steps must be taken to avoid damage to the vehicle and injury to oneself.

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Empty the vehicle of fuel

Before starting, make sure you have less than half a tank of fuel. This is because both tanks will have to be detached from the undercarriage. If the secondary tank has fuel in it, there is no way to siphon it out, and it will be too heavy to handle.

To remove the fuel from the left, primary tank, you can either siphon it out or use the fuel pump. To use the fuel pump, first disconnect the fuel line going to the engine from its connection at the bulkhead/firewall on the driver's side with a fuel line disconnect tool. Attach one end of a six-foot-long, 3/8-inch section of rubber hose over the metal fuel line end, and put the other end into the top of a large, empty gas can placed on the floor.

Next, jumper across two terminals of the fuel pump relay inside the fuse box under the hood on the passenger side. The pump relay shown is #55 in the fuse box, as mapped out on the box's lid (check to make sure).

Now, turn on the ignition (but don't start the engine) and let the fuel pump run the primary fuel tank dry. When the fuel tank is empty, shut off the ignition. Cap and store the gas can in a safe place. Reconnect the car's fuel line to the fuel rail on the engine. Plug the relay back into the fuse box, and then disconnect the negative terminal of the battery.

Safety precautions

It is important to take the necessary safety precautions when working with fuel. Always work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling fumes. Avoid open flames or sparks, as they can cause an explosion. Wear protective gear, such as gloves and eye protection, to shield yourself from any fuel spills or splashes. Ensure there are no ignition sources nearby, and have a fire extinguisher readily available in case of an emergency.

Tips for easier fuel removal

If you find it challenging to access the fuel line or the fuse box, try using a mirror to get a better view. You can also label the fuel lines before disconnecting them to make it easier to reconnect them properly. Additionally, you can place a drip pan or absorbent pads underneath the vehicle to catch any fuel spills or leaks.

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Jack up the car, remove the rear tire and inner fender liner

Jacking up the car is a crucial step in changing the fuel filter of a 57 Corvette. This process requires a significant amount of clearance, specifically 20-24 inches, under the rear end to access and remove the fuel tank. It is recommended to use six-ton jack stands or a similar setup to ensure the necessary height is achieved.

Once the car is securely jacked up, the next step is to remove the left rear tire and inner fender liner. This step provides access to the fuel tank and its components. The inner fender liner is held in place by a combination of sheet metal screws and plastic push pins. Removing these fasteners will reveal a small access panel that covers the top of the primary tank.

At this stage, it is important to exercise caution and patience. Working in a tight space with critical fuel system components can be challenging, and it is essential to avoid damaging any fuel lines or connectors. It is recommended to have a container nearby to catch any fuel that may spill or leak during the process.

With the rear tire and fender liner removed, the next steps involve disconnecting various hoses and connectors related to the fuel system. These include the fuel filler hose, vent return hose, four-pin connector, fuel line, EVAP line, and vent line. It is important to carefully label or mark each disconnected component to ensure proper reassembly later. Additionally, some connectors may have quick-disconnect features or require specific tools for detachment, so having the appropriate tools and knowledge beforehand is crucial.

After completing these steps, you can proceed with further steps to access and replace the fuel filter, which is contained within the fuel sender assembly inside the left fuel tank. Remember to refer to a reliable repair manual or seek assistance from a qualified mechanic if you are unsure about any part of the process.

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Disconnect the fuel filler hose, vent return hose and four-pin connector

Disconnecting the fuel filler hose, vent return hose, and four-pin connector is a crucial step in accessing and replacing the fuel filter in a 57 Corvette. Here is a detailed guide to help you through the process:

Step 1: Access the Rear Wheel Liner

Remove the driver's side rear tire and the inner fender liner. The liner is secured by sheet metal screws and plastic push pins. Removing these will reveal a small access panel that covers the top of the primary fuel tank.

Step 2: Remove the Access Panel Cover

Take off the cover of the access panel to expose the fuel filler hose and vent return hose connections. You will also gain access to the four-pin connector attached to the chassis.

Step 3: Disconnect the Fuel Filler Hose

The fuel filler hose is secured with a simple hose clamp. Use a hose clamp tool or channel lock pliers to loosen and remove the clamp, allowing you to detach the hose from the filler neck.

Step 4: Disconnect the Vent Return Hose

The vent return hose features a quick-disconnect white plastic fitting. Press the wide spot on the fitting while pushing the connection together, and then gently pull it apart to disconnect.

Step 5: Unplug the Four-Pin Connector

Near the filler hose and vent hose connections, you will find the four-pin connector. It attaches to the chassis and has a barbed connector plug. The outer pins hold the thick red (positive) and black (ground) wires for the primary tank's electric fuel pump. The inner pins hold the thin wires for the fuel-sending sensor. Unplug this connector carefully.

By following these steps, you will have successfully disconnected the fuel filler hose, vent return hose, and four-pin connector, allowing you to proceed with accessing and replacing the fuel filter in your 57 Corvette.

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Disconnect the fuel line, EVAP line and vent line

Disconnecting the fuel line, EVAP line, and vent line is a crucial step in changing the fuel filter in a 57 Corvette. Here is a detailed guide on how to perform this task:

Firstly, locate the fuel line, EVAP line, and vent line. The fuel line is positioned behind the primary tank, while the EVAP line runs from the primary tank to the secondary tank. The vent line can be found on top of the primary tank.

Now, let's begin the disconnection process. Place a container underneath the fuel line to catch any trapped fuel. Using a fuel line disconnect tool, carefully detach the fuel line from the engine compartment. Ensure that you have less than half a tank of fuel before proceeding, as it will make the process safer and more manageable.

Next, disconnect the EVAP line. This line connects the primary and secondary tanks, so it is essential to be cautious to avoid any spills or leaks.

Finally, disconnect the vent line. This line is located on top of the primary tank and has a similar coupler to the one found on the filler neck.

By following these steps, you will successfully disconnect the fuel line, EVAP line, and vent line, allowing you to access and change the fuel filter in your 57 Corvette. Remember always to refer to the service manual for additional information and take the necessary safety precautions when working on your vehicle.

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Remove the support fitting

To remove the support fitting, you will need to have already completed the previous steps, including emptying the vehicle of fuel, jacking up the car, removing the rear tire and inner fender liner, and disconnecting the fuel filler hose, vent return hose, four-pin connector, fuel line, EVAP line, and vent line.

With the risers in place, you will see a spring-loaded “C” shaped support fitting that the accordion crossover tube snaps into. This can be found above the transmission. You can either unbolt the support bracket from the car body or pull the crossover tube up, over, and out of the fitting. Alternating between the tanks, pull them both down until each sits on its support riser. This will give you the lateral space needed to pull the accordion crossover tube coupler out of the primary fuel tank lock fitting.

Frequently asked questions

You will need a jeweler's screwdriver set, very large offset pliers (Channellock), and a fuel line disconnect tool.

You can either siphon the fuel out or use the fuel pump to do so. First, disconnect the fuel line going to the engine from its connection at the bulkhead/firewall on the driver's side with a fuel line disconnect tool. Then, attach a rubber hose to the metal fuel line end and place the other end into a gas can. Jumper across two terminals of the fuel pump relay inside the fuse box, turn on the ignition, and let the fuel pump run the tank dry. Shut off the ignition, cap and store the gas can, and reconnect the car's fuel line to the fuel rail on the engine.

Jack up the rear of the car, remove the left rear tire and inner fender liner, and remove the access panel cover behind the wheel liner.

The filler hose coupler is a simple hose clamp, and the vent line has a quick-disconnect white plastic fitting. The four-pin connector holds two thick wires on the outer pins and two thin wires on the inner pins. Unplug this connector.

From under the car, disconnect the fuel line that runs to the engine compartment. Also, disconnect the EVAP line going from the primary tank across to the secondary tank, and a vent line located on top of the tank.

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